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essay

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Definition of essay

noun

Pronunciation: /ˈɛseɪ/

1a short piece of writing on a particular subject.

2 formal an attempt or effort:a misjudged essay in job preservation
a trial design of a postage stamp yet to be accepted.

verb

Pronunciation: /ɛˈseɪ/

[with object] formal

attempt or try:Donald essayed a smile

Origin:

late 15th century (as a verb in the sense 'test the quality of'): alteration of assay, by association with Old French essayer, based on late Latin exagium 'weighing', from the base of exigere 'ascertain, weigh'; the noun (late 16th century) is from Old French essai 'trial'